How to Stop Multitasking and Lower Stress

By Jacquelyne Froeber
February 05, 2013
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Experts say reducing stress begins with the end of multitasking.
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Ahhh, relaxation at last

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Quit multitasking and you’ll slash your stress levels, says Robert Mack, a life coach and the author of Happiness From the Inside Out. Here’s how.

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Plan a real vacation

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It doesn’t matter if you go to Tahiti or your town pool, taking at least four or five days off dramatically lowers your stress level. "That allows your creativity and inspiration to resurface," Mack says.

If you have kids and opt for a staycation, take turns with your man doing kid-duty—or send them off to their own vacation at grandma’s.

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Take a mental siesta

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Instead of racing through your to-do list, schedule in time every single day to just chill out, Mack says.

Reserve 10 minutes after lunch to sit on a park bench and people-watch or drive around with the windows open and listen to music. Doing something pleasurable helps you tune into the moment—which will snap you out of stress mode.

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Up the good stuff

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To feel less burned out, do a little more of the things you love and a smidgen less drudge work.

Try this: For one week, scale back on one or two chores that are not absolutely necessary (ironing, attending your least favorite gym class) and spend twice as much time on one or two activities you can’t get enough of (gardening, after-dinner walks).

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Hit pause

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Feeling overwhelmed with a project? A five-minute breather will actually make you more productive. "Feeling stressed out means you’re not focusing," Mack says. "When you slow down and regain peace of mind, you’ll be happier and more efficient."

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By Jacquelyne Froeber